Automotive Technology / Mechanic Degrees
Career summary: Mechanics
Average Salary$36,610 National Average, Source: Bureau of Labor Statistics |
Career OutlookGood 9% job growth by 2022, which is below average |
Earn a degree in automotive technology / mechanic from an accredited college
Mechanics is the branch of the physical sciences that deals with the interaction of energy and forces on physical bodies. The application of a degree in mechanics may include design, development, maintenance, repair or operation of aircraft, automobiles, small engines, industrial machinery, diesel engines, heating and air conditioning equipment, heavy equipment, etc.
Overview
Why would I want an automotive technology degree?
An automotive technology degree can teach you how to diagnose engine and other automotive issues. If you love working with your hands a career in automotive technology might be for you.
Job Description
What does an automotive service technician do?
Automotive service technicians and mechanics typically do the following:
- Identify mechanical problems, often by using computerized diagnostic equipment
- Test parts and systems to ensure that they are working properly
- Follow checklists to ensure that all critical parts are examined
- Perform basic care and maintenance, including changing oil, giving tuneups, checking fluid levels, and rotating tires
- Repair or replace worn parts, such as brake pads and wheel bearings
- Disassemble and reassemble parts
- Use testing equipment to ensure that repairs and maintenance are effective
- Explain to clients their automotive problems and the repairs done on their vehicles
Salary
How much does an automotive service technician make?
The median annual wage for automotive service technicians and mechanics was $36,610 in May 2012. The median wage is the wage at which half the workers in an occupation earned more than that amount and half earned less. The lowest 10 percent earned less than $20,810, and the top 10 percent earned more than $60,070.
Career Outlook
How popular are automotive service technician jobs?
As the number of vehicles in use continues to rise, more entry-level service technicians will be needed to do basic maintenance and repair, such as replacing brake pads and changing oil. The increasing lifespan of late-model cars and light trucks will further increase demand for qualified workers.
Career Path
How do I become an automotive service technician?
A high school diploma or the equivalent is typically the minimum requirement for someone to work as an automotive service technician or mechanic. High school courses in automotive repair, electronics, computers, mathematics, and English provide a good background for prospective service technicians. However, high school graduates often need further training to become fully qualified.
Salary and career outlook data provided by the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics.
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